Should You Build Your Deck Level With Your House?

While decks are an excellent way to extend your living area, their installation requires careful planning. Bear in mind that if you’re considering constructing your own deck, there are a few factors to consider that  involve assessing the level of your deck in relation to your house.

Each type of deck has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Everything remains a matter of personal preference and existing home design, though it’s true that certain architectural styles complement raised decks more than others. Here’s a comparison from Eagle Creek Siding, LLC, a deck replacement expert, to give you a better understanding of the specific deck levels.

Building Raised Decks

Raised decks, like custom decks, are designed to complement the architecture of your home. Raised ranch-style ramblers with split-level flooring frequently include raised decks on the second floor. This deck can have direct access to the stairs on the outside, with the stair height matching that of the internal stairs.

Traditional architectural forms such as Colonial, Victorian or classic Cape Cod may also include raised decks attached to the foundation, typically two to three feet above the ground. The crawl space beneath counts as an additional level, despite the fact that it’s not functionally a level. These decks are raised slightly above the height of the back door to facilitate access. Stairs can also be constructed on the exterior to give users a second point of access to the deck directly from the backyard.

Grade Level Decks

Residential siding experts refer to “at grade” construction as building a deck at ground level. A ground-level deck is typically composed of a box of floorboards that’s supported by joists a few inches above the ground.

Platforms are unattached at-grade decks. Platforms under 18 inches in height may be exempt from railing restrictions, depending on local building codes. Before you begin, consult with your vinyl window installation specialist and deck builder regarding the applicable code requirements.

Finding a competent, dependable contractor to assist you throughout the process is the most crucial stage of building any type of deck. This is why you should hire a knowledgeable specialist to assist you in constructing your deck in the least stressful manner possible.

For inquiries about quality home improvement, turn to Eagle Creek Siding, LLC. We’re part of the James Hardie® Contractor Alliance™ program, which gives us access to advanced training and support for our team, and we offer products from both  LP® and James Hardie siding for your siding needs. Call us today at (360) 226-6970 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment.